Work is underway to clear a section of the Monmouthshire & Brecon canal in Cwmbran to help improve the flow and quality of water.
Over the next couple of weeks, contractors will be removing channel weeds and fallen trees and clearing culvert grills between Star Street and the top of the cascades, north of Llandowlais Street.
As well as improving water flow, the work will improve biodiversity and the look and feel of the canal for local residents and visitors.
Chris Wyatt, the council's canal co-ordinator, said: "This work is part of our 10-year strategy to improve and enhance the canal but it's being carried out slightly earlier than planned in response to the drop in water levels we saw over the summer.
"It will benefit residents who live in the immediate vicinity and hopefully attract other visitors to enjoy this section of the canal."
It is hoped the work will help to maintain water levels along the southern section into Newport and prevent areas drying out during hot weather spells.
The work has been funded by Members' Choice and a contribution from Cwmbran Community Council and is part of a planned wider programme of clean-up works on the remaining stretches in Torfaen, towards the boundary with Newport, to maintain water levels on the southern sections.